The original meaning of the Greek word ekklesia is a gathering or assembly. Here it is better translated as "community", which is the translation I find in my Bible de Jérusalem.

Verbum

Yes, but Matthew 18:17 does come after Matthew 16:18 and the same word "ekklesia" is used in Matthew 16:18 (the church being built upon Peter) and 18:17. Church is just an english translation for this assembly - which scripture tells us would be led by Peter and the apostles and it is this "church" "ekklesia" which will stand for all time.

Blessings,

Brian

__________________The time is coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah." (Jer 31:31)